Pro Series with Eric Dillman

Why do people act like a house being built in 1904 automatically makes it superior? In this episode, we talk about when "they don't make 'em like this anymore" becomes code for crooked floors, no insulation, and vintage asbestos.

Then—let’s talk hurt feelings and hard stats. I break down why posting a list of top-selling country artists somehow offended people... even though I didn’t write the numbers, I just read them. (Blame Billboard. Or math.)

And finally, the longest-charting country song of all time? It’s not who you think. Spoiler: It’s not even technically country. Let’s get into it.

In Episode 201 of the Pro Series Podcast, we’re joined by Matthew Hillebrand, Vice President of Outside Sales and IT at Don’s Appliances.With over 30 years of experience, Matt shares how Don’s Appliances has grown to over 190 employees, become a Top Workplace in Pittsburgh, and continues to lead the way in customer experience, sales innovation, and digital content creation.We discuss:The evolution of the appliance retail industryBuilding a sales strategy that puts people firstCreating trust through educational contentLeading through growth and changeThe behind-the-scenes of Don’s podcast “What’s the Deal with Don’s”Why their motto is “Evolve, so as to not dissolve.”Whether you’re in construction, design, sales, or retail—this episode is packed with insights on scaling a family business, embracing technology, and keeping customers at the center.🎙️ Tune in now and get inspired by how a regional brand became an industry powerhouse.

Country music is having a moment — and this week on Off Topic, we’re covering it all. First, we break down how Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” has sold 850,000 more units than any other album in the U.S. this year — and what makes this release such a monster success.Then, we dive into the Top 10 Highest-Selling Country Artists of All Time — from legends to unexpected names. Think you know who’s #1? Think again.But that’s not all...People are now renting fake friends for vacation photos.Yes, literally.There are services that will pose you with a “friend” on a fake trip, or even Photoshop you into dream destinations like Hawaii or the Grand Canyon — all for the ’gram. We unpack:Why this trend is blowing up nowWhether it’s harmless fun or next-level fakeThe pressure of online image vs. real lifeAnd… would YOU do it?This episode is full of hot takes, real talk, and a little bit of chaos — just how we like it.

We’ve made it to Episode 200 of The Pro Series Podcast! To mark this major milestone, I’m joined by Liza Hausman, Vice President of Industry Marketing at Houzz — the leading platform revolutionizing residential design and construction.

In this episode, Liza shares how pros can stay ahead using Houzz Pro, and how the industry is evolving to meet the needs of modern homeowners and professionals alike.

Plus, you’ll get a sneak peek into the 2025 U.S. Houzz State of AI Report and how artificial intelligence is changing the way we design, build, and run our businesses.

Whether you're a designer, builder, or industry enthusiast — this is one episode you don’t want to miss.

Instagram Hits Google, Wallen’s Remix Tease, Holiday Chaos & Country Music Weekly
In this episode of Off Topic, we’re diving into Instagram’s newest update—your posts might start showing up on Google (yes, really). We break down what that means for creators and small businesses. Then we’re talking about the Morgan Wallen “Miami” remix featuring Lil Wayne and Rick Ross—what’s the hype and will it live up? Plus, stores are already rushing the holidays (because why wait?), and we wrap it all up with this week’s hottest country music updates.

Whether you're here for the algorithm tea or the country charts, you’re in the right place.

In Episode 199, I’m joined by Mike Lucas, CEO of REVIVE Flooring & Paint, one of Pittsburgh’s go-to companies for expert painting and flooring services.We dive into how Mike built a service-based business rooted in trust, clear communication, and high-quality craftsmanship. From scaling a team to earning repeat business from clients who value results, this episode is full of insight for entrepreneurs, creatives, and home industry pros.Tune in to hear the story behind REVIVE — and what it takes to stand out in a competitive market.https://reviveflooringandpaint.com/

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric dives headfirst into the chaotic brilliance of starting your week on a Tuesday—because let’s be honest, Monday three-day weekends are the ultimate life hack. Why suffer through a regular five-day week when you can time-travel your way to Friday by simply skipping Monday?

Also on the docket:

• Why Instagram’s Edit app might just be your new best friend—no more retakes, just type, paste, and post.

• A late-night scroll spiral that led to an absolutely unhinged “life hack” involving sunscreen and paint rollers.

• And a heartfelt moment honoring Toby Keith’s Apple Sessions—because sometimes you need a little country nostalgia to balance the madness.

Time may be fake, but this episode is very real. Tune in for some laughs, questionable thoughts, and oddly solid advice.

Seif El-Sahly isn’t just building homes — he’s building trust, teams, and a legacy of excellence. In this episode, we dive into the story of a civil engineer-turned-entrepreneur who went from moonlighting his startup to landing million-dollar projects and scaling a business that’s transformed over 200 units across Canada.

Born to civil engineer parents in Abu Dhabi and raised in Canada, Seif shares how discipline, precision, and grit laid the foundation for Newfore Inc. From revitalizing abandoned properties to managing a viral digital presence, he brings a rare mix of technical skill, creative problem-solving, and hands-on leadership to every site.

We talk about:

• The hustle behind his first $1M project

• Balancing entrepreneurship with integrity (even when facing a seven-figure fraud)

• Why he treats every project like a teammate

• What it took to hit 15M Instagram views and 45M Facebook views

• How he uses engineering to unlock ROI in complex multi-unit conversions

Whether you’re in construction, design, or business, this episode is a masterclass in accountability, resilience, and making things happen — no excuses.

In this week’s episode of Off Topic, we’re diving headfirst into the chaos of modern life — online and offline. First up: the algorithm doesn’t reward ghosting — I’ll tell you why your first 15 minutes after posting are more important than the post itself. Then, I’m sounding the alarm on unhinged DIY trends (hanger chandeliers? Coffee-stained drywall? We’ve gone too far).

Also: can we stop putting cottage cheese in everything?! I’m all for high-protein hacks, but not every dessert needs curds.

And of course, I’m closing with this week’s Country Music Weekly, where I share why I want to be reincarnated as one of Jelly Roll’s farm animals — no seriously, they’re living the dream.

Buckle up. It’s unfiltered, it’s hilarious, and it’s Off Topic.

If you’re great at what you do but struggling to run the business side of things — this episode is for you. Ken Cox, tech innovator, business leader, and host of the Clicks and Bricks Podcast, joins us to break down how small business owners can streamline operations and scale smarter.

We dive into tools like CRM systems, office solutions, and simple strategies to help you build a business that runs efficiently — and profitably.